The Ariel International Fund demonstrated exceptional performance in the second quarter of 2026, delivering a robust +21.50% return. This impressive gain significantly outpaced key benchmarks, including the MSCI EAFE Index, which posted a +10.82% return, and the MSCI ACWI ex-US Index, which rose by +14.49% during the same period. This strong showing highlights the fund's effective investment strategies and its ability to navigate diverse international markets successfully.

During the quarter, the fund actively managed its portfolio by introducing eight new investment positions, reflecting a proactive approach to identifying emerging opportunities. Concurrently, the fund made strategic divestments, including exiting its holding in SUMCO Corporation. This decision was driven by an assessment of the company's valuation, despite its status as a prominent provider of advanced silicon wafers crucial for central and graphics processing units. Furthermore, the Ariel International Fund strategically incorporated the Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF into its holdings, utilizing it as an alternative to traditional cash reserves to optimize its liquidity management.

Exceptional Quarterly Performance and Strategic Portfolio Adjustments

The Ariel International Fund experienced an outstanding second quarter in 2026, achieving a remarkable +21.50% return. This performance notably surpassed the returns of both the MSCI EAFE and MSCI ACWI ex-US indices, which recorded +10.82% and +14.49% respectively. The fund's ability to significantly outperform these benchmarks underscores its effective investment philosophy and skillful management in navigating the complexities of global markets. This strong growth can be attributed to carefully selected investments and timely adjustments within the portfolio.

During this high-growth period, the fund actively pursued new opportunities by adding eight new positions to its portfolio, indicating a forward-looking and adaptive investment strategy. Simultaneously, the fund strategically divested from SUMCO Corporation, a key player in advanced silicon wafer technology, due to concerns regarding its market valuation. This move demonstrates the fund's commitment to maintaining a disciplined approach to investment, prioritizing value and potential returns. Additionally, the fund integrated the Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF, leveraging it as a dynamic cash alternative to enhance portfolio liquidity and responsiveness to market shifts.

Key Investment Decisions: New Holdings and Market Exits

In the second quarter of 2026, the Ariel International Fund implemented several pivotal investment decisions to optimize its portfolio. A total of eight new positions were initiated, reflecting the fund's ongoing effort to identify and capitalize on promising opportunities across various international markets. These additions are part of a broader strategy to diversify holdings and seek out undervalued assets or sectors poised for growth. The introduction of these new investments demonstrates the fund's proactive stance in adapting to market dynamics and seizing potential advantages.

A notable strategic adjustment was the divestment from SUMCO Corporation. Despite its significance as a leading supplier of advanced silicon wafers—essential components for central and graphics processing units—the fund decided to exit this position. This exit was primarily driven by a re-evaluation of SUMCO's valuation, indicating a disciplined approach to profit-taking and risk management. Furthermore, the Ariel International Fund strategically utilized the Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF as a cash alternative, illustrating a modern approach to managing liquidity and seeking efficient market exposure while maintaining flexibility. These actions collectively highlight the fund’s dynamic and well-considered approach to investment management.